For the Sylamore Creek Trail, a button compass is really enough. Declination is not a factor in Arkansas. The trail follows the creek the entire way so it would be really hard to get lost. It's a good spot for a first trip. It's very scenic, the trail is easy to follow, and there are likely to be people at the rec areas if you have any trouble. Also, we found a $100 bill along the side of the road at Gunner Pool campground a few years ago, but I wouldn't count on that.